Kidney lithiasis is relatively uncommon than other kidney diseases in pediatric patients, but managing it in children can be complicated.

In recent years, advances in diagnostic approaches and treatment interventions have assisted healthcare professionals manage kidney lithiasis more efficiently. The purpose of this article is to explore the advanced techniques that can be employed to manage kidney lithiasis in pediatric patients at Mother Children.

Diagnosis of Kidney Lithiasis

Before initiating treatment, healthcare providers need to make an accurate diagnosis to determine the size, texture, and location of the kidney stones. Imaging is an essential diagnostic tool used in pediatric patients to diagnose kidney stones.

Several imaging techniques are available and may include:.

Computed tomography (CT)- This technique provides high-resolution images of the kidney stones.
Ultrasound (US)- This noninvasive technique is safe and cost-effective and can be used as the first line of imaging for pediatric patients.
Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI)- This technique can be used when CT or US imaging cannot be used.

Conservative Management of Kidney Stones

Conservative management is usually the first line of treatment for small kidney stones in pediatric patients. Conservative management options may include:.

Hydration- Drinking plenty of fluids is essential in managing kidney stones. Adequate hydration helps to flush out the stones naturally.
Dietary modifications- Reducing the intake of high oxalate-containing foods such as spinach, beets, nuts, and berries can assist in managing kidney stones.
Medical management- Certain medications such as alpha-blockers can assist in managing certain types of kidney stones.

Surgical Interventions

Surgical interventions may be employed if the kidney stones are large, multiple, or cannot be passed naturally. The type of surgical intervention used will depend on the size, location, and composition of the stones. Surgical interventions may include:.

Extracorporeal shock wave lithotripsy (SWL)- SWL uses high-energy shock waves to break down the stones into smaller pieces that can be passed naturally.
Percutaneous nephrolithotomy (PNL)- PNL is a minimally invasive surgical intervention that involves the insertion of a small tube through the skin to the kidney to remove the stones.
Ureteroscopy (URS)- URS involves the insertion of a small scope through the urinary tract to locate the stones and remove them.
Open surgery- Open surgery is rarely used in children but may be employed in some cases where other surgical interventions are unsuccessful.

Management of Complications

Complications are rare, but healthcare providers need to be aware of the potential complications that may arise in pediatric patients with kidney stones. Some of the complications that may occur include:.

Urinary tract infections- This may occur in children with kidney stones.
Obstruction- The stones may obstruct the ureter or the bladder, causing complications.
Kidney damage- Rarely, kidney damage may occur if the stones are left untreated.

If complications occur, healthcare providers need to manage them promptly to prevent further complications.

Prevention of Kidney Stones

Preventing the recurrence of kidney stones is essential in managing pediatric patients with kidney lithiasis. Some of the options that can be employed include:.

Drinking plenty of fluids- Adequate hydration is essential in preventing kidney stones.
Dietary modifications- Reducing the intake of high oxalate-containing foods can assist in preventing the recurrence of kidney stones.
Medical management- Some medications can be used in preventing the recurrence of certain types of kidney stones.
Regular follow-up- Regular follow-up with healthcare providers can assist in monitoring the condition and preventing recurrence.

Conclusion

Managing kidney lithiasis in pediatric patients can be complicated, but advances in diagnostic tools and treatment interventions have assisted healthcare providers to manage the condition more efficiently.

Conservative management should be the first line of treatment, but surgical interventions may be employed in some cases. Preventing the recurrence of kidney stones is essential in managing pediatric patients with kidney lithiasis.